Whitby, Ont. – Municipal workers at the Town of Whitby voted 98 per cent in favour of a strike, over issues of fairness and respect, if a fair agreement cannot be reached with their employer.
“The strong strike vote demonstrates our members’ unity and determination to win a fair collective agreement,” said Karen Wilson, president of CUPE 53. “We work hard to serve our community and we expect to be treated fairly and with respect.”
The 230 ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), deliver key municipal services including garbage collection, snow removal, sanding, planning, administration, parks, arenas and recreation services.
“Management must come back to the bargaining table with a more respectful attitude towards our members and the work we do,” said Wilson. “All we are looking for is a fair deal that recognizes our members’ contribution to our community.” Conciliation talks are scheduled for January 11. The workers’ last contract expired on March 31, 2007.
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For further information, please contact:
Karen Wilson Betty Sommers James Chai
CUPE 53 President CUPE National Rep. CUPE Communications
905-925-2873 905-439-7044 416-292-3999